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November 1st, 2011

Don’t be confused by its name, the Canon MP-E 65mm Macro Lens is an macro lens unlike any other. Canon states the focal length to be 65mm, but you can disregard this number for all technical purposes.

Let’s explain:

A standard macro lens has a working distance (the space between the tip of the lens to the subject) in the range of 6″ to 8″ and a life-size magnification ratio (1:1). The MP-E 65mm’s variable magnification, however, starts where the macro stops with a ratio range of life-size to five times life-size (5:1). Therefore, the working distance of this lens decreases as the magnification ratio increases, 4″ to 1.6″ (1:1 to 1:5 respectively).

Think: grain of salt magnified to the size of a bolder!

As you turn the ring over you will find the 1x, 2x, 3x, 4x and 5x markings ( It should be noted that this is a manual focus lens, which does not take away from this amazing macro-only lens).To operate, simply set the the barrel to the magnification you desire and move the camera body away/towards the subject to focus, or set the focal length and adjust the magnification until you find the perfect focus. In other words, the MP-E65mm will only be in focus at its respective focal length. For example, you will unable to have a proper magnification of 5:1 at a working distance of 8″ because the subject must be exactly 1.6″ from the tip of the lens.

At its smallest aperture, a long shutter speed or high light source is required for the optimal exposure. Although lens works fine unsupported, when magnifying past the 3:1 ratio, the camera’s movement can be dramatically enhanced therefore a very sturdy tripod and on ring flash is recommended. No worries, this lens is also compatible with the Macro Ring Lites and our Macro Twin Lite, eliminating the need for the often awkward bellow accessories of other macro len’s.

On the down side, the Canon MP-E 65mm Macro Lens is not suggested for first-timers, as it has a pretty frustrating learning curve.


February 7th, 2011

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED lenses are the high-quality Nikon lenses exclusively designed for use in digital SLR Nikon cameras with smaller DX size chip. The lens is ideal for both amateur and professional photographers who demand high optical performance and wide-angle focal zoom range.

The DX design of the Nikon lenses provides wider angle-of-view and optical characteristics that are optimized for Nikon digital SLR camera sensors. The design also produces smaller image circle, making the lens smaller and lighter but offering optimal image quality. The extra-lightweight and compact design of these Nikon lenses is similar to 17-35mm f/2.8 lens.

The lens consists of three aspherical lens elements that minimize distortion and yield higher resolution and superior contrast. The Manual/Automatic mode allows switching between the two modes even during AF servo operation without any time lag.

The 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Nikon lenses feature wide angel zoom capability, along with Extra-low Dispersion (ED) and built-in Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology unique for Nikon lenses. The SWM enables ultra-high-speed auto focusing while also providing noiseless operation.

The 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Nikon lenses do not have aperture rings, so there is no need to set it to the minimum. This feature enables easier and flawless operation. The rounded diaphragm makes the out-of-focus elements to appear more natural.

The Internal Focusing (IF) design of these Nikon lenses also enables smoother focusing and great body.

The Nikon DX lenses are not recommended for use with 35mm, digital “full-frame” FX, or APS SLR cameras.

In short, the 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Nikon lenses are worth their value in terms of optical quality, speed, sharpness and sturdiness. However, they are a bit heavier and expensive too. If you find it too expensive to afford, go for lens rental services. You could fetch them in Nikon cameras rental providers by paying minimum rental charges.

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED lenses are the high-quality Nikon lenses exclusively designed for use in digital SLR Nikon cameras with smaller DX size chip. The lens is ideal for both amateur and professional photographers who demand high optical performance and wide-angle focal zoom range.

The DX design of the Nikon lenses provides wider angle-of-view and optical characteristics that are optimized for Nikon digital SLR camera sensors. The design also produces smaller image circle, making the lens smaller and lighter but offering optimal image quality. The extra-lightweight and compact design of these Nikon lenses is similar to 17-35mm f/2.8 lens.

The lens consists of three aspherical lens elements that minimize distortion and yield higher resolution and superior contrast. The Manual/Automatic mode allows switching between the two modes even during AF servo operation without any time lag.

The 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Nikon lenses feature wide angel zoom capability, along with Extra-low Dispersion (ED) and built-in Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology unique for Nikon lenses. The SWM enables ultra-high-speed auto focusing while also providing noiseless operation.

The 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Nikon lenses do not have aperture rings, so there is no need to set it to the minimum. This feature enables easier and flawless operation. The rounded diaphragm makes the out-of-focus elements to appear more natural.

The Internal Focusing (IF) design of these Nikon lenses also enables smoother focusing and great body.

The Nikon DX lenses are not recommended for use with 35mm, digital “full-frame” FX, or APS SLR cameras.

In short, the 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Nikon lenses are worth their value in terms of optical quality, speed, sharpness and sturdiness. However, they are a bit heavier and expensive too. If you find it too expensive to afford, go for lens rental services. You could fetch them in Nikon cameras rental providers by paying minimum rental charges.

February 1st, 2011

Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM lenses are the high-quality, professional grade 50mm lenses available for professional photographers. This Canon lens surpasses its counterparts in terms of quality, price and physical features.

Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM lenses can be thought as the smaller version of other f/1.2 Canon lenses in the market. The f/1.2L Canon lenses are much shorter and narrower. They measure 3.4 inches (L) x 2.6 inches (B) (85.4mm x 65.5mm) and weigh 19.2 oz (545g). They are made of high-quality materials and solid glass. The lenses look thicker than their size.

The 50 f/1.2 Canon camera lens uses a front-focusing design, which enables it to extend/retract the front lens elements inside the lens barrel. The AF speed of 50 f/1.2 Canon lenses is comparatively lower than the ultra-fast rear-focus lenses from Canon.

The 50 f/1.2 Canon lenses have a Full Time Manual (FTM) focusing enabled. The focus ring is smooth, slightly stiff and damped. The lens features a mechanical manual focusing pattern.

Another noteworthy feature on the Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens is weather sealing. However, to enable this feature and complete the factory weather sealing, 50 f/1.2 Canon camera lens requires a filter. On the front lens elements that move forth and back, the lens barrel requires a 72 mm filter to complete the sealing.

The Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens surpasses its competitions not only in terms of build quality but also in its image quality. The 50mm f/1.2 L Canon camera lens is fairly sharp at f/1.2 and becomes sharper as it moves father. These 50mm f/1.2 Canon lenses deliver the best-available sharpness at the widest apertures.

With its sharp shooting capabilities, the EF 50mm f/1.2 L Canon lenses are the best for macro photography and landscape photography.

January 24th, 2011

Nikon AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR II is one of the most powerful Nikon camera lenses. The 24-120mm focal length capability continues to be a unique proposition in the NIKKOR lens range, according to Nikon officials. The AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR II Nikon lens is suitable for FX format D-SLR photographers.

Released in August 2010, the new Nikon lens with 5x zoom capability comes with a fixed f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range. These Nikon camera lenses are also known for their Nano Crystal coat and Nikon’s second generation VRII system.

The AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR lens offers great value and performance for adventurous photographers. Covering the exclusive zoom range of 24mm to 120mm offered by the NIKKOR, this Nikon lens is also suitable for journalists and travel photographers

An attractive feature of the AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR II Nikon lens is Nikon’s second generation Vibration Reduction system that incorporates two modes: Normal and Active. The Normal mode is used for general handheld shooting while the Active mode compensates for the mechanical vibration frequencies caused by the surrounding vehicles and distractions.

These powerful Nikon camera lenses also feature Nano Crystal coat, two ED glass elements and a minimum three aspherical lens elements that maintain the bright, high contrast images under different lighting conditions. These Nikon camera lenses are designed to eliminate ghosting, flare and aberrations. The nine bladed diaphragm produces subtle bokeh effect in out of focus areas.

Another unique feature of the AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Nikon lens is the Silent Wave Motor (SWM). With this technology, the Nikon lens offers very discreet autofocus performance with instant Manual override possible in M/A mode. Additionally, the carefully designed zoom gearing and switch placement enables intuitive operation while looking through the viewfinder.

With its larger zoom range, the AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR lens Nikon camera lenses are suitable for adventure and travel photographers.

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January 19th, 2011

Canon EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Lens is one of the fastest Canon camera lenses. This Canon lens looks very similar to the Canon EF 20mm f/2.8 USM Lens in its size, build quality and appearance.
The EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Canon lens uses the Ultrasonic motor (USM) technology for enabling faster and quiet autofocusing. The focusing speed of EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Lens is almost equal to or a bit faster than the f/2.8 version. Also added in this Canon lens is the Full Time Manual (FTM) focusing.

The EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Canon camera lenses can be mounted very well on any DSLR. Compared to its predecessors – the 24 f/2.8 and the 28 f/2.8 Canon lenses – EF 28mm f/1.8 USM presents a modern style. An easier manual focusing is another nice thing about this Canon lens.

Featuring a 1.6x Field of View Crop Factor (FOVCF) body, the Canon EF 28mm f/1.8 USM Lens is good as a near-normal 45mm lens.

This Canon lens, however, does not excel in terms of sharpness and chromatic aberration. Canon EF 28mm f/1.8 USM lens exhibits chromatic aberration at mid and corner points of the frame. These Canon camera lenses are also prone to flare and produce some barrel distortion at times.

Despite these drawbacks, the Canon EF 28mm f/1.8 USM lens produces decent background blur. The Canon lens also features a 7-blade aperture. It would make a good low-light handheld lens for smart photographers.

This small-size Canon EF 28mm f/2.8 Lens makes a good choice for travelers. It is available for a decent price too. This Canon lens can also be used as a second lens, especially if you are carrying one of the zoom Canon 70-200 L Lenses as a primary lens. The EF 28mm f/2.8 Canon lens works as a reliable backup lens to a more expensive primary use lens.

January 12th, 2011

The Nikon AF 14mm f/2.8D ED lens is an ultra wide angle Nikon lens that offers a dramatic angle view in demanding situations thanks to its 114-degree picture angle and f/2.8 fast aperture. The new Nikon 14mm f/2.8 improves over the manual focus 15mm f/3.5 AI-s and other older ultra-wide Nikon camera lenses.

Designed for film and FX digital cameras, Nikon AF 14mm f/2.8D ED is a high-performance Nikon lens ideal for interiors, spectacular cityscapes or challenging photojournalistic images even in dim light.

With its Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass and two aspheric lens elements, the Nikon AF 14mm f/2.8D ED lens ensures superior image quality and compact design. This Nikon lens weighs just 12 oz (333g).

The Nikon AF 14mm f/2.8D ED lens is excellent for shooting Fuji Velvia 50, but it is more versatile for use on FX digital. Unlike its spherical 13mm and 15mm predecessors, this newer Nikon lens does not face the ghosting problems. It’s also much sharper at every aperture.

Nikon AF 14mm f/2.8D ED lens is compatible with Nikon D3 and D700. It can also be used with manual focus cameras like the FA. The aspherical lens works on every Nikon camera the company produced since 1977.  For Nikon cameras built during the 1959-1977, you’ll have to use stop down metering, or have a meter coupling prong installed.

Like other traditional AF Nikon camera lenses, the Nikon AF 14mm f/2.8D ED lens also works perfectly on almost every AF, digital, film and manual focus camera. The 14mm f/2.8D Nikon camera lens is one of the most universal Nikon camera lenses and can work on an F3, FA, FE, F4, F5, FG, F6, N55, D100, or whatever.

However, you can’t expect autofocus from 14mm f/2.8D Nikon lens on D40, D40x or D60. Neither does it on F3. Use these Nikon camera lenses with the cheap digital SLRs and you can focus manually and look for the focus confirmation dot in their finders.

January 4th, 2011

Released in August 2004, Canon Speedlite 580EX Flash is designed for EOS system photographers. This new Canon camera flash system replaces the popular Speedlite 550EX model from Canon.

Featuring a more powerful flash with a maximum guide number of 58/191 at ISO 100 in meters/feet (at 105mm focal length), the new Speedlite 580EX Flash also offers enhanced controls.

Like most Canon lens products, the Speedlite 580EX flash is designed from the ground up to maximize digital photography experience. It yields greater performance and features a more comfortable and easy-to-use interface than its predecessors. Compared to other Canon camera speedlites, the Speedlite 580EX Flash is smaller and lighter too.

The Speedlite 580EX flash is compatible with Canon’s Evaluative Through The Lens (E-TTL II) auto exposure technology. When combined with a compatible Canon camera, the E-TTL II produces accurate flash exposure regardless of the size of the subject, reflectance or photographic composition. For this reason, the Speedlite 580EX flash is considered as a great Canon camera product for photographers who shoot high contrast or reflective subjects.

The Speedlite 580EX flash is compatible with all film and digital EOS cameras in addition to the G-series and Pro-1 PowerShot digital cameras. For digital SLR users this Canon camera offers the ability to auto-compensate for the size of the CMOS sensor. It also zooms the flash head automatically to match the effective focal length conversion. As a result, the Speedlite 580EX flash can maximize the light distribution ability to produce more flashes.

When used with the EOS 20D or 1D Mark II digital SLR cameras, Speedlite 580EX flash Canon lens makes fine adjustments to auto white balance by electronically monitoring the battery charge level and the duration of each flash burst, yielding consistently accurate color for each shot.

This new Canon lens also features the ability to reduce the full-power recycling time by about 25 percent, while increasing the maximum Guide Number power rating by about 50 percent.

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December 29th, 2010

The Nikon TC-20E is a teleconverter for Nikon AF-I and AF-S lenses. It increases the focal length of the Nikon lens or any compatible lens by 100 percent (2X) and reduces the lens aperture by two f/stops. With this feature, the AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E is ideal for sports shooting, wildlife, surveillance and more.

With compatible cameras and lenses, the Nikon TC-20E can maintain full metering and focusing capabilities. Nikon TC-20E features a specially designed Nikon lens that has seven elements in six groups. It works with a wide range of Nikon camera lenses ranging from 200 mm f/2G to 600 mm f/4D.

Nikon TC-20E 2x Teleconverter for AF-S AF-I measures approximately 2.6 X 2.2 in. (Diameter x Length) and weighs approximately 12.5 oz. This Nikon camera teleconverter also features an AF-S Silent Wave Motor. It comes with BF-3A front lens cap and LF-1 rear lens cap.

Though it is compatible with a wide range of Nikon camera lenses, auto focusing is possible only when it is used with D1, D1H, D1X, D2X, D2XS, D3, D3x D100, D200, D80, D70, D70S, D2H, D2HS, D50, D40, D40X, F6, F5, F100, N80, N75 and N65 AF SLR cameras.

The highlight of Nikon TC-20E teleconverter Nikon lens is the AF speed, especially on the 80-200mm f/2.8 AF-S. It also features the Nikon integrated coating which helps the teleconverter enhance light transmission efficiency, improve color consistency, and reduce flare.

The performance of the TC-20E varies according to the Nikon lens you use. For example, the Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 AI-S gives pretty good results with the TC-20E. The only drawback of Nikon camera TC-20E teleconverter is that it will only mount on AF-S and AF-I lenses.

TC-20E teleconverter is costlier, but if you can get it rented for an affordable price at leading lens rental services.

December 24th, 2010

The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro camera lenses combine excellent image quality and convenient focal length. With its lightweight body and fast AF quality, this Canon lens becomes yet another 100mm macro lens from Canon that delivers impressive picture quality.

The AF of this Canon lens is powered by Canon’s excellent Ring USM (Ultrasonic Motor). Its AF is internal, fast, quiet and accurate. These Canon camera lenses also features full time manual (FTM) focusing. They also have a flush-mounted focus ring that makes the fine-tuning easier during manual focus.

These macro Canon camera lenses are provided with AF limiter switch. They are available for 1′ – 1.6′, 1.6′ – ∞ and 1′ – ∞. For macro shooting, manual focusing should work best. Set the focus distance according to the requirement and move the camera forward or backward conveniently until the subject is properly focused.

A unique feature of the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM is its aluminum body. In fact, the lens mount and name plate are made from aluminum while the rest of the body is made of engineering plastic, giving this Canon lens a solid feel. These Canon camera lenses are well proofed against heat, dust and moisture. The flush-mounted switches and the straight design make the use of this Canon lens very smooth and comfortable.

Another peculiarity of Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM lens is that it does not move with focusing; neither do its filters turn. This is obviously a great feature while focusing at the Minimum Focus Distance of a macro lens.

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM also features a textured Canon ET-73 lens hoods that are more scratch resistant. The peculiar shape of the lens hood makes it very protective for the lens. If you don’t like the hood, you can always remove it. Despite all these features, these EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Canon camera lenses are lightweight and small in size.

December 17th, 2010

Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM is an ultra wide-angle zoom lens suitable for all EF-S mount digital EOS cameras. More specifically, this wonderful zoom lens from Canon provides ultra wide-angle coverage to the EOS 20D, 30D, 40D, 50D and Digital Rebel SLRs.

Designed for digital photography, this Canon lens is exceptionally small and lightweight to enable maximum mobility. The wide focal range of EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Canon camera lens has made it the favorite choice of creative photographers.

Having an effective focal length range of approximately 16-35mm in 35mm format, you can get closer to the subjects and exaggerate the difference in size between the near object and its background. Creative photographers can best use this feature to bring the feel of a good separation between the subject and its background for creating intuitive images.

EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Canon lens comes with specially shaped lens elements –three aspherical lens elements and a Super-UD glass element – to yield high image quality at all focal lengths. Additionally, this Canon lens features Super Spectra coatings to control ghosting and flare. You may further reduce the flare using an optional lens hood.

Featuring Ultrasound Motor (USM) technology, the EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Canon lens provides ultra-quiet, super-fast, precision auto focusing and predictive tracking. Circular aperture diaphragm produces brilliant out-of-focus characteristics.

EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Canon camera lens promises superior AF performance and speed with its ability to produce full-time manual focus by simply turning the ring.

Another striking feature of EF-S is its Short Back Focus. This is caused because the distance between the film (sensor) plane and the rear side of lens is shorter than that in an EF lens.

EF-S 10-22 f/3.5-4.5 USM Canon Lens is not suitable for 35mm film SLR cameras, or for 35mm size “full-frame” digital cameras.

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